Devils aside, this is why Tazzie rules. This cool-climate island is ideal for bright, crisp and high-acid sparkling wine with a gentle cushion of ripe fruit. This “méthode Tasmenois” is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier from across the island. Taut with red apple, cherry and citrus, the palate courts lemon curd and Asian pear before a riff of tight grapefruit and a whiff of herbal anise.
Ample apples here — warm yellow and crisp green — woven with perfumed apple blossoms through this sparkling wine from the Adelaide Hills. Equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir strike a harmonious chord between firm and ripe, between crisp and baked orchard fruits. Streaking pithy citrus acidity is met by a bump of sweetness on the stony, sage-dusted finish. Enough heft and fruity freshness here to handle many dishes (sautéed apple pork chops was a hit).
A bargain at the price. Deep ruby colour; pencil lead, cedar and currants on the nose; medium- to full-bodied with red plum and red currant flavours backed by lively acidity.
Australian wines have not been known for their delicacy and restraint but the trend is working in that direction. This Chardonnay is pale straw in colour with a minerally pear nose and only a whisper of oak. The wine is dry and medium-bodied with fresh pear and citrus flavours. Good length in the mouth and good value.
A dramatic shift in style for the Eileen Hardy to a more Burgundian model which speaks to the cooler fruit sources. Straw-coloured with a toasty, spicy tropical-fruit nose showing some barnyard notes. Spicy pineapple and orange flavours, minerally with a lively spine of acidity giving the wine great length.
Developed deep red fruit with raspberry and supporting peppery spice shifting to concentrated dark berry and black chocolate themes on the palate. Shows a touch of liquorice on the slightly bitter tannic finish. Will be better with 2 to 3 years additional aging.
Shows some depth and complexity with developed Shiraz varietal raspberry, cinnamon and a pinch of white pepper on the nose. Shifts to rich blackberry flavours on the palate in a medium- to full-bodied package with well-integrated fruit, oak and light dry tannins on the finish.